Bedbug detection, monitoring and control techniques

ABSTRACT

One nonlimiting variation of a detection arrangement includes one or more sensors each structured to detect at least one biochemical substance indicative of biochemistry of one or more target insect species and provide a corresponding sensor signal, a controller responsive to the sensor signal of each of the one or more sensors to determine if the one or more insect species are present and generate a corresponding output signal, and an indicator responsive to the output signal to indicate the presence of the one or more insect species.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/594,613 filed on Jan. 12, 2015, which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/153,723 filed onJan. 13, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,984,804, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/723,760 filed on Dec. 21, 2012, nowU.S. Pat. No. 8,661,728, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/968,620 filed on Dec. 15, 2010, now U.S. Pat.No. 8,375,626, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/800,462 filed on May 14, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,905,048, whichis a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/975,914 filed onOct. 22, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,743,552, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/853,573 filed Oct. 23, 2006and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/854,378 filed Oct. 25,2006, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to pest control, and more particularly,but not exclusively, relates to the detection, monitoring, and controlof insects, including for example, bedbugs.

Recent data suggests bedbug infestations (Cimex species) of humandomiciles are on the rise. At least 92 species have been identifiedglobally, of which at least 16 species are in the North Americancontinent. Generally, bedbugs are parasitic pests with its hostsincluding humans and various domesticated animals. It is believed thatbedbug infestations are becoming more problematic now at least in partbecause long acting, residual insecticides are no longer being used tokeep bedbug populations in check. In addition, increased internationaltravel and insecticide resistance have made bedbug infestations spreadand control with insecticides very difficult. In terms of scale, suchinfestations are of particular concern for hoteliers, cruise ships,trains, daycare facilities, and the like because of the businessreputation risk posed by bad press or bad reviews. Other problematicareas tend to include nursing homes, barracks, dorms, hospitals, andvarious other forms of high density housing. Nonetheless, single familyhomes can likewise be impacted adversely.

For many of these dwellings, the pervasive application of long actinginsecticides by spraying and/or dusting is undesirable. As a result, newapproaches to bedbug detection, monitoring, and control are beingsought. The present application provides contributions along these linesthat are not only applicable to bedbugs, but may also find applicationin the detection, monitoring and control of other species of insects.

SUMMARY

One embodiment of the present application includes a unique technique todetect, monitor and/or control insect infestations. Other embodimentsinclude unique methods, systems, devices, and apparatus to detect,monitor and/or control bedbugs.

A further embodiment includes: a detection arrangement including one ormore sensors each structured to at least detect nitrophorin and providea corresponding sensor signal; a controller responsive to the sensorsignal of each of the one or more sensors to determine if thenitrophorin is indicative of bedbug presence and generate acorresponding output signal; and an indicator responsive to the outputsignal to indicate the presence of the bedbugs.

Still a further embodiment comprises: operating an insect control ordetection device to determine if bedbugs are present in a room thatincludes analyzing a substance from the room to detect nitrophorin andindicating that bedbugs are present to an operator if nitrophorin isdetected by the analyzing of the substance.

Yet a further embodiment for determining the presence of bedbugs in aroom comprises obtaining a sample of a substance from the room;analyzing the sample to determine if nitrophorin is present in thesubstance; and providing an indication of the presence of bedbugs inresponse to the determination of the presence of nitrophorin.

Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a uniquetechnique to control insect infestation.

Another object is to provide a unique method, system, device, orapparatus to control or detect and monitor for bedbugs.

Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantagesof the present application shall become apparent from the descriptionand figures provided herewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a system suitable to detect and addressbedbug infestation.

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic, partial sectional view of a first type ofdevice of the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic partial sectional view of a second type ofdevice of the system of FIG. 1 that eliminates bedbugs with aninsecticide. This second type of device can be used in addition to or inlieu of the device of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart depicting one procedure for using the system ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic view of a second type of system suitable toaddress bedbug infestation.

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic, partial sectional view of a first type ofdevice of the system of FIG. 5 that includes an insecticide to eliminatebedbugs.

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic partial sectional view of a second type ofdevice of the system of FIG. 5. This second type of device can be usedin addition to or in lieu of the device of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart depicting one procedure for using the system ofFIG. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF REPRESENTATIVE EMBODIMENTS

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of theinvention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated inthe drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. Itwill nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of theinvention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modificationsin the described embodiments, and any further applications of theprinciples of the invention as described herein are contemplated aswould normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the inventionrelates.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a diagrammatic view of asystem 10 suitable to address an insect infestation, such as bedbugs, inroom 15. System 10 includes at least one device 20, which, asillustrated, is attached to leg 41 a of bed 40 and is suitable for oneor more of detecting, monitoring and controlling an insect population,such as a bedbug population. The total number of devices 20 used insystem 10 may vary in relation to the infestation problem and/or thetime period in which an effective removal is desired. Bed 40 furtherincludes legs 41 b-41 d which are interconnected via a frame 42 and aheadboard 43 to form a support for a mattress 44 placed on top of boxsprings 45. It should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments,bed system 40 may comprise one or more components in addition to or inlieu of those illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, in other embodimentsbed system 40 may lack box springs 45 or headboard 43, or may include afootboard. In yet another embodiment, bed system 40 may only includemattress 44 on top of box springs 45 set directly on floor 16 of room15. Device 20 may be attached to bed leg 41 a by any type of fastener,including but not limited to, a nail, screw, bolt, tack, clamp, strap,adhesive, tape, hook and loop connector (such as VELCRO), and/or suchdifferent fastener variety as would occur to those skilled in the art.In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, device 20 may be placedelsewhere on the structure of bed system 40. For example, device 20 maybe placed on any of legs 41 a-41 d, frame 42, headboard 43, a portion ofmattress 44, or on box springs 45. In another alternative embodiment,device 20 may be placed on either of wall 17 or 18, or elsewhere in theroom 15.

It should be understood that as illustrated in FIG. 1, system 10 isbeing used in room 15, where room 15 belongs to a: dormitory, hostel,shelter, hotel, motel, bed and breakfast, inn, tent, cabin, nursinghome, hospital, and/or house, just to name a few possibilities. In afurther embodiment, system 10 may be used at any location in which ablood meal, particularly a human blood meal, might be in the presence ofa bedbug during a bedbug feeding period, such as nighttime. For example,system 10 might be placed in the sleeping rooms or cabins of a vehicle(such as a ship, train, or motor coach), or in sleeping rooms of daycarecenters and schools. System 10 may be individually configured inaccordance with the specific attributes of each location.

Additionally, the placement of device 20 within a designated area maynot only vary with different locations, but can also vary in accordanceto visual evidence indicating the increased probability of nearbybedbugs or bedbug harborages. For example, device 20 may be placed inclose proximity to one or more of bedbug excrement or fecal matter,molted exoskeleton shells, eggs, or blood spots. In one embodiment,device 20 may be placed in close proximity to the likely location of ahuman blood meal host, like for example near mattress 44. In anotherembodiment not illustrated, device 20 may be placed on or near one ormore bedbug harborages in the form of a crack, gap, or crevice. Forexample, device 20 may be placed near peeling wallpaper or cracks in thedrywall or plaster of either of walls 17 and 18 in room 15.Additionally, for an embodiment in which room 15 includes one or moretrim moldings mounted to walls 17 and/or 18, device 20 may be placed inclose proximity thereto. For one variation, device 20 is shaped andstructured to simulate trim molding or another common decor featuretypically found in a bedroom. In another embodiment, device 20 may beplaced next to flooring on the surface of floor 16, like for examplenear the edge of either securely fastened or rolled back carpet. Inanother variation, device 20 may be placed on or near one or more of airduct vents 21, which may communicate with one or more of a supply airduct or a return air duct, as would be appreciated by one having skillin the art. In another form, device 20 may be placed in the supply airduct or return air duct communicating via vents 21. It is furthercontemplated that device 20 may be placed in any position effective forbedbug control.

Device 20 is shown in greater detail in a diagrammatic partial sectionalview in FIG. 2. Device 20 includes a housing member 32 defined by anexterior wall 34 and a top cover 36 enclosing an internal chamber 35which houses a sensing arrangement 37 generally including interconnectedsensor 38, controller 48, indicator 52, and power source 56. It iscontemplated that in alternative embodiments not shown, sensingarrangement 37 may include one or more components in addition to or inlieu of that illustrated in FIG. 2. It should further be understood thatin various embodiments the componentry of sensing arrangement 37 may bearranged in one or more alternative fashions to that depicted in FIG. 2.

Sensor 38 extends through exterior wall 34 at opening 40 such thatsensing portion 42 may be externally exposed to the environment of thearea in which device 20 is placed. Sensor 38 is generally structured toanalyze one or more biochemical substances 144 to determine if it isindicative of bedbug biochemistry. A few detailed examples of thebiochemical detection mechanisms performed with sensor 38 are furtherdescribed hereinafter in connection with reference to FIGS. 1-3generally. While sensing portion 42 is illustrated as being at leastpartially external to chamber 35, it should be understood that inalternative embodiments sensing portion 42 may be entirely disposedwithin chamber 35. In these embodiments, device 20 may include one ormore components to convey a biochemical substance. For example, withregard to such substance 144 being carried in the air, an air handlingsystem like a fan or suction device can be included to at least bringpart of a biochemical substance 144 into internal chamber 35 throughopening 40 to engage sensing portion 42 of sensor 38. In another form,device 20 may include one or more openings in addition to opening 40,with each additional opening being structured to guide a medium carryingbiochemical substance 144 into contact with an internally disposedsensing portion 42. For example, when device 20 is placed on or near airduct vents 21, or in the air ducts themselves, the opening may bestructured to channel the airflow moving around device 20 into contactwith sensing portion 42.

In response to biochemical substance 144, sensor 38 generates acorresponding sensor signal that is conveyed along signal pathway 46 tocontroller 48. Controller 48 operates in accordance with operating logicto determine if the signal indicates the presence of biochemistryindicative of bedbug presence and/or another target insect type.Controller 48 is comprised of one or more components that may beconfigured as a single unit, or distributed among two or more units.Such components may be of a solid state, electromagnetic, optical,and/or different variety as would occur to those skilled in the art. Thecontroller 48 may include analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or ahybrid combination of both of these types. In one form, the controller48 is of the programmable variety that executes algorithms and processesdata in accordance with its operating logic being defined by programminginstructions (such as software or firmware). Alternatively oradditionally, the operating logic for controller 48 is at leastpartially defined by hardwired logic or other hardware.

After controller 48 receives and processes the sensor signal, acontroller output signal is output along signal pathway 45 to anindicator 52. Indicator 52 is generally structured to provide a humanoperator with an output to indicate the presence or absence of abiochemical substance 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry. Asillustrated in FIG. 2, indicator 52 includes an output in the form ofvisual markers 54. Visual markers 54 may be in one or more forms of alight, such as a light emitting diode (LED), fluorescent, incandescent,and/or neon type, amongst other possibilities. In each form, thepresence of biochemical substance 144 may be indicated by, for example,a discrete yes/no indicator, a color change, a flashing sequence, orother change in indicator state. In alternative forms, indicator 52 mayprovide an output indicating the presence of biochemical substances 144in the form of a colorimetric strip or an aural/audio signal. In oneform, when the output of indicator 52 is in an aural form, the presenceof biochemical substance 144 may be indicated by one or more of a singleor sequential beep, chime, ring, horn, and click, just to name a fewpossibilities. In one implementation, a quantitative evaluation isprovided by varying the indication with the number of bedbugs present,such as providing a more intense color indicator, a louder and/or morefrequent aural indicator, or the like in response to detection of agreater bedbug presence.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, sensing arrangement 37 includes a power supply56 structured to send electrical power to controller 48, sensor 38,and/or indicator 52, as needed. Only power supply pathway 58 tocontroller 48 is illustrated. It should be appreciated that certaintypes of sensor 38 and/or indicator 52 may derive any needed electricalpower from pathway 46 and/or 58 as needed, and that in still otherembodiments such components are passive, not needing any type ofpersistent electrical power source.

As illustrated, power supply 56 is located within internal chamber andmay be provided for example, in the form of one or more electrochemicalcells or battery of such cells. In an alternative embodiment, power issourced externally from an electrical socket, such as wall receptacle 19in FIG. 1, in which case, supply 56 is understood to be at leastpartially external to device 20. It should be appreciated that sensingarrangement 37 may be modified for use with a DC power source or an ACpower source and that the modification of components may be dependentupon the availability of one or more forms of the power source. Inanother form, a renewable external power source, such as a solar celldisposed on top cover 36 of device 20, may be used to provide sensingarrangement 37 with power. It is further contemplated that in otherembodiments one or more of sensor 38, controller 48, and indicator 52,each includes its own power source. The components of sensingarrangement 37 including sensor 38, controller 48, and indicator 52 maybe alternatively interconnected. For example, in one arrangement thecomponents of sensing arrangement 37 may be interconnected using wiredor wireless techniques with corresponding signals structured in anappropriate fashion. It should be appreciated that some implementationsmay be passive in nature, so that no power source is needed, andalternatively or additionally no controller may be utilized. As furtherdescribed elsewhere in the present application, a colorimetric stripsensitive to one or more bedbug-specific biochemicals provides onenonlimiting example of a sensor/indicator device that lacks a powersource and controller.

Once bedbugs have been detected, an operator can determine whether toconduct an extermination process, such as the application of one or moretypes of insecticides toxic to bedbugs. Such types of insecticides arefurther described with reference to FIG. 3 as follows. FIG. 3 depicts adiagrammatic partial sectional view of device 70 which is suitable foruse in system 10 and configured for one or more of detecting, monitoringand controlling an insect population, such as a bedbug population.Device 70 includes an operator handle 72 opposite a housing member 74.Operator handle 72 is generally structured for engagement by the hand ofa human operator and may including knurling 73 to increase operatorgripping capabilities. In alternative forms not shown, operator handle72 may include one or more grip enhancing features in addition to or inlieu of knurling 73. For example, in one form a rubber coating may beapplied to operator handle 72 while in another form operator handle 72may include one or more ergonomic hand grips. In another embodiment,handle 72 may be free from any grip enhancing features.

Housing member 74 includes an exterior wall 76 and a top cover 80 whichtogether form an internal chamber 78 structured to house and provideprotection for sensing arrangement 81 and exterminating arrangement 109.Sensing arrangement 81 includes an interconnected sensor 82, controller94, indicator 100, and power source 104. It is contemplated that inalternative embodiments not shown, sensing arrangement 81 may includecomponents in addition to or in lieu of that illustrated in FIG. 3. Itshould further be understood that in various embodiments the componentryof sensing arrangement 81 may be arranged in one or more alternativefashions to that depicted in FIG. 3.

Sensor 82 extends through exterior wall 76 at opening 84 such thatsensing portion 86 may be externally exposed to the environment of thearea in which device 70 is being used. Similar to sensor 38, sensor 82is generally structured to analyze one or more biochemical substances144 indicative of bedbug presence. A few detailed examples of thebiochemical detection mechanisms performed with sensor 82 are furtherdescribed hereinafter in connection with reference to FIGS. 1-3generally. While sensing portion 86 is illustrated as extending beyondinternal chamber 78—being at least partially external thereto—it shouldbe understood that in alternative embodiments sensing portion 86 may beentirely disposed within chamber 78. In these embodiments, as describedabove, device 70 may include one or more structures to conveybiochemical substances 144, bringing all or part of it into contact withan internally disposed sensing portion 86. Device 70 may also includeone or more openings in addition to opening 84, with each additionalopening being structured to guide a medium carrying biochemicalsubstance 144 into contact with an internally disposed sensing portion86.

Upon sensing biochemical substances 144 indicative of bedbugbiochemistry, sensor 86 sends a corresponding sensor signal tocontroller 94 via signal pathway 92. Controller 94 can be configured inany of a number of ways such as described in connection with controller48. After controller 94 receives and processes sensor signal 90, acontroller output signal is sent to indicator 100 via signal pathway 96.Indicator 100 is structured to provide a human operator with an outputsignal notifying the operator of the presence of biochemical substance144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry. Indicator 100 includes visualmarkers 102 to notify a human operator of bedbug biochemistrysimilarities and the probability of the presence of one or more bedbugs.Visual markers 102 are generally structured and operative in a mannersimilar to that described above in regard to visual markers 54.Furthermore, as indicated above, indicator 100 may provide output tonotify a human operator of the presence of biochemical substance 144indicative of a bedbug in one or more forms in addition to or in lieu ofvisual markers 102. For example, an aural signal or a colorimetric stripmay be utilized. It should be appreciated that any output signalsprovided by indicator 100 may include any one or more features describedabove with respect to the output signals which may be provided byindicator 52.

A power source 104 is included in internal chamber 78 that provideselectric power to controller 94, sensing arrangement 81, andexterminating arrangement 109, respectively. The provision of such powerto arrangement 81 and/or 109 may be via controller 94 and/or by separatepower conveying pathways not shown. In still other embodiments, some orall of the components of arrangements 81 and 109 are passive in nature,not requiring a persistent source of power. Power source 104 may be inthe form of a DC battery, or in an alternative form, may not bepositioned within internal chamber 78. In one such alternative, thepower source 104 may be an AC source, such as wall receptacle 19 inFIG. 1. As described above in regard to arrangement 37, it iscontemplated that the components of arrangements 81, 109 may beindividually powered and can be interconnected through one or more wiredor wireless pathways.

When sensing arrangement 81 indicates one or more biochemical substances144 of bedbugs, a human operator may use device 70 to commenceextermination via exterminating arrangement 109. Exterminatingarrangement 109 includes a pushbutton 110. In response to the depressionof pushbutton 110, control module 112 sends a release signal on signalpathway 116 to an exterminating module 118. As illustrated in phantom,exterminating module 118 extends through exterior wall 76 at opening 119and includes an internal reservoir 120 communicating with an applicatortip 122. A closing member 123 is biased to a closed position adjacentthe applicator tip 122. The contents of reservoir 120 include aninsecticide 124 toxic to bedbugs. In response to the release signal fromsignal pathway 116, member 123 opens to release insecticide 124 in afluid form, such as an aerosol, gas, liquid, or powder. When theoperator releases the depressed button 110, the release signal changesstate in such manner that member 123 returns to its closed state inresponse, ceasing the release of insecticide 124.

In an alternative embodiment not shown, exterminating module 118 may bedirectly connected to controller 94 and may react directly to thepresence of biochemical substance 144 to release insecticide 124automatically, without any action by a human operator. In one such form,insecticide 124 is control released and confined to the area in whichbiochemical substance 144 is detected. In another embodimentexterminating system 109 may be mechanical in nature, such that asoperator release button 110 is depressed, member 123 is opened to permitrelease of insecticide 124. In this form, exterminating system 109 maynot include any connection to sensing arrangement 81 or power source104. Insecticide 124, non-limiting examples of which will be providedherein below, may be of one or more forms effective for exterminating abedbug population as would be appreciated by one having ordinary skillin the art. The insecticide can be provided in a form intended to beingested by bedbugs and/or to provide exposure sufficient forextermination by external contact with the body of a bedbug. In stillanother form, the insecticide may be provided in a vapor form which maybe insufflated through one or more spiracles of a bedbug.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 1-3, devices 20, 70 may comprise anynumber of suitable materials including certain polymers, woods, metals,or any mixtures thereof. Moreover, one or more of devices 20 may be usedwith one or more of device 70 in a further embodiment. It shouldappreciated that each of devices 20, 70 is not limited to the form asillustrated in respective FIGS. 2 and 3. For example, device 20 may beconfigured for hand-held operation while device 70 may be configured forsemi-permanent placement. In additional alternative forms, devices 20,70 may be wheeled devices or robotic devices structured to scan, forexample, room 15.

Indicator 52, 100 may provide information in addition to a positive ornegative indication of biochemical substance 144. In one form, arelative concentration or quantitative measurement of an analyte used bysensor 38, 82 may be provided by indicator 52, 100. When suchinformation is provided, sensor 38, 82 may include an operator viewingscreen on which the relevant information is displayed. In these forms,controller 48, 94 may provide indicator 52, 100 with a pre-programmedcontrol model upon which the human operator may compare the levels ofbiochemical substances 144 detected to determine if one or more bedbugsare present or if further detecting is necessary. It should also beappreciated that the output provided by indicator 52, 100 may vary inrelation to a characteristic of the biochemical substance 144 analyzedby sensor 38, 86. For example, in response to different concentrationlevels of biochemical substance 144, indicator 52, 100 may providevisual markers 54, 102 including levels of brightness which correspondto the concentration level of biochemical substance 144. Additionally oralternatively, aural/audio signals may be provided which include volumelevels and/or output sequences which correspond to the concentrationlevel of biochemical substance 144.

In a further embodiment, information is relayed by a wired or wirelesscommunication pathway from device 20, 70 to a remote site for furtherdata collection and analysis. This remote site could be a computercoupled to device 20 and/or 70 by a computer network in a designatedroom of a hotel, nursing home, cruise ship, train, dormitory, barracks,hospital, or the like and/or could even be remote relative to suchstructures, like a pest control service provider business location orthe like.

As indicated above, sensor 38, 82 is generally structured to analyze atleast one biochemical substance 144 to determine if it is indicative ofbedbug biochemistry. In addition to air handling mechanisms, transportof an analyte to sensor 38, 82 can be accomplished by a swab, wipe,tissue, or towelette or the like either with or without a wetting agent,such as distilled water, to collect a sample for biochemical analysis.Alternatively or additionally, a dust/particulate collector is utilizedwith or without a wetting agent. In a further approach, a liquid isapplied in aerosol form to the air and/or to one or more surfaces andcollected for sensor analysis. Any of these transport mechanisms can bemanually and/or automatically performed. In one particular variation,the sample is collected with a device that includes an agent in liquidor aerosol form, which is intended to react with one or more biochemicalindicative of bedbugs. Sensors 38, 82 can include any chemical reaction,antigen/antibody reaction, galvanic, electrochemical, fluorescence,spectroscopic, and/or chromatography technique or the like to detect abiochemical substance 144 or group of such substances 144 indicative ofa target insect types, such as bedbugs. Certain specific examples ofthese implementations are further described in the examples that follow.

It is contemplated that the biochemical substance 144 may be anycompound or combination of compounds that are distinctly associated withbedbug biochemistry. In one form, biochemical substance 144 may be oneor more or any combination of bedbug saliva, exoskeletons, lost antennaeand other body parts, pheromones, hormones, kairomones, proteins, bodilysecretions including fecal matter, other waste products or by-products,and/or seminal fluid, and eggs and egg residue. It is contemplated thatarrangement 37, 81 may be modified in various embodiments to detect oneor more of each the listed biochemical substances 144 as well as otherbiochemical substances indicative of bedbug biochemistry.

The specific biochemical substances) 144 analyzed may vary. In one formwhere the biochemical substance sought to be analyzed is a bedbugexoskeleton, chitin comprising acetylglucosamine(N-acetyl-D-glucos-2-amine) may be sensed by sensor 38, 82. In anotherform, when bedbug saliva is analyzed by sensor 38, 82, an anticoagulantor anesthetic may be the substance sought to be detected. In onespecific implementation of saliva analysis, one or more proteins, suchas nitrophorin and apyrase, or peptides forming the proteins, may be thetargeted biochemical substance 144. Any one or more of mammalian redblood cells, white blood cells, platelets, glucose, iron and plasma, theplasma including but not limited to, albumin, thrombogenic factors,immunoglobulins, hormones, proteins, and/or electrolytes, may bedetected as biochemical substance 144 when sensor 38, 82 analyzes bedbugfecal matter. In analyzing a substance to determine if it is bedbugseminal fluid, sensor 38, 82 may detect for the combined presence ofalanine and glutamic acid and/or DNA or RNA specific to a bedbugspecies. In another form, sensor 38, 82 may detect the presence ofbedbug hormones, kairomones, and/or pheromones in any state of matter(solid, liquid or gas). In one such implementation, sensor 38, 82 may bestructured to detect for one or more of trans-oct-2-en-1-al ortrans-hex-2-en-1-al. It should be appreciated that sensor 38, 82 may bestructured to detect any number of combinations of compounds in order toyield a more reliable result as to the detection of a biochemicalsubstance 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry.

Sensor 38, 82 may include one or more features structured to facilitatechemical analysis of biochemical substance 144 to determine if it isindicative of bedbug biochemistry. In one form, sensor 38, 82 includesapplication of an agent as aerosol spray and/or liquid to thebiochemical substance 144. Such agent is selected to cause a desiredchemical reaction with the target biochemical substance(s) 144 thatfacilitates detection with sensor 38, 82. In one form, the agent causesan endothermic or exothermic reaction between one or more biochemicalsubstances specific to a bedbug. In this form, sensor 38, 82 includes athermometer structured to record differences in temperature which mayresult from the reaction. Upon detection of a selected amount of changein temperature, arrangement 37, 81 provides a positive indication of thepresence of biochemical substance 144. In a variation of this approach,arrangement 37, 81 indicates that at least a temperature correspondingto an increased level of biochemical substance 144 is present below thethreshold, at which point a human operator could decide whether tocontinue searching. In another form, the aerosol may be structured toprovide an electrochemical reaction with the biochemical substance 144.Sensor 38, 82 may then include a meter structured to measure electricalcurrent; voltage or other electrical property associated with theelectrochemical reaction such that arrangement 37, 81 may determine ifthe biochemical substance 144 is indicative of bedbugs. In still otherforms, the reaction results in a pH level indicative of the targetbiochemical(s) and/or oxygen concentration indicative of the targetbiochemical(s) detectable with sensor 38 and/or 82.

Sensor 38, 82 may further include a molecularly imprinted polymerstructured to detect one or more potential biochemical substances 144.The molecularly imprinted polymer includes a plurality of receptionsites which have been specifically modified for a targeted molecule,like for example, one of the bedbug-indicative compounds listed above.Each reception site will generally include a shape, size, andfunctionality unique to the targeted molecule. In one non-limiting form,the molecularly imprinted molecule may include reception sites whichextract one or more of trans-oct-2-en-1-al or trans-hex-2-en-1-al froman air flow that passes thereby. Once a sufficient amount of the one ormore of trans-oct-2-en-1-al or trans-hex-2-en-1-al is extracted andbound to the molecularly imprinted polymer section of sensor 38, 82, acorresponding signal to indicate bedbug presence may be sent tocontroller 48, 94 and/or to indicator 50, 92.

In one form in which device 20, 70 detects the presence of a bedbugexoskeleton including chitin, which comprises acetylglucosamine(N-acetyl-D-glucos-2-amine), sensor 38, 82 provides an enzyme in theform of a lysozyme. As would be appreciated by one having ordinary skillin the art, the lysozyme hydrolyzes N-acetyl-D-glucos-2-amine linkagesto break-up the chitin structure. Sensor 38, 82 may be structured in oneor more forms to detect the concentration of one or more molecules asthe result of the hydrolysis reaction and arrangement 37, 81 maydetermine and indicate whether the tested sample is likely a biochemicalsubstance 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry based upon theconcentration changes, or lack thereof, that result from the reaction.

Sensor 38, 82 may utilize one or more forms of a wipe assay inalternative embodiments. In this form, one or more wipes may be used toswab a surface desirable for analysis and then placed into an assayanalyzer of sensor 38, 82. In one form, an enzyme-linked immunosorbentassay (ELISA) may be provided at sensor 38, 82 to provide detection of atargeted antibody in bedbug saliva. The assay may utilize an IgEantibody which is specific to a nitrophorin antigen present in thebedbug saliva. Another antibody coupled to an enzyme is provided whichreacts with the nitrophorin-IgE antibody complex as would be appreciatedby one having skill in the art. The second antibody may provide achromogenic or fluorogenic signal indicative of the presence of thenitrophorin-IgE antibody complex. Consequently, a corresponding signalmay be sent to controller 48, 94 so that arrangement 37, 81 can indicatethe presence of biochemical substance 144 indicative of bedbugbiochemistry.

It should be appreciated that sensor 38, 82 may utilize one or morebiochemical reactions or analysis techniques to determine the presenceof biochemical substance 144 indicative of a bedbug. These biochemicalreactions and analysis techniques may include, but are not limited to:an electrochemical reaction; an antigen-antibody reaction; anendothermic reaction; an exothermic reaction; assay analysis; SOS-Page;a glucose reaction monitor; and Kastle-Meyer analysis just to name a fewexamples. Additionally or alternatively, detection based on spectrometryand/or chromatography can be utilized, including for example, massspectrometry and liquid chromatography. Furthermore, it is contemplatedthat as additional biochemical substances 144 specific to bedbugbiochemistry become targeted substances, arrangements 37, may bemodified accordingly in order to provide adequate sensing techniques.Additionally, each of devices 20, 70 may include one or more sensors inaddition to sensors 38, 82 to either provide an expanded surface area ofdetection or an increased number of targeted biochemicals. Furthermore,it should be appreciated that as the targeted biochemical substance 144changes, controller 48, 94 may also change in order to adequately handlesensor signals. For example, in varying forms, controller 48, 94 may beprogrammed with one or more control levels upon which determination ofvarying targeted biochemical substance(s) 144 indicative of bedbugbiochemistry is to be evaluated.

In one manner of detecting a biochemical substance 144, devices 20, 70are specifically structured to identify the protein nitrophorin by, forexample, detecting one or more peptides or peptide fragments thereof. Inthis form, sensor 38, 82 may be contacted with a surface in a room wherebedbug infestation might be likely to facilitate potential exposure tonitrophorin. Additionally or alternatively, an exemplary sample of anysubstances on the surface may be obtained by a user and then exposed tosensor 38, 82. In this latter manner, it should be appreciated that thesample may be further treated or processed before exposure to sensor 38,82, including, for example, being mixed with one or more solvents orother carrier agents as necessary to facilitate analysis by sensor 38,82. Sensor 38, 82 may utilize any one or more of the analytical methodsdescribed above, including one or more of liquid chromatography and massspectrometry and antigen-antibody reaction, for determining the presenceof nitrophorin. If the presence of nitrophorin is positively indicated,devices 20, 70 may automatically notify a user of such. In another form,sensor 38, 82 determines the concentration of nitrophorin and comparesthat concentration with concentration levels pre-programmed into devices20, 70 which are indicative of bedbug presence before notifying a userof the presence of nitrophorin. Upon the positive identification of arequisite amount of nitrophorin, a user may selectively apply aninsecticide to the room or take other appropriate actions.

As an alternative or addition to biochemical sensing techniques, otherbedbug sensing mechanisms can be utilized. For example, a sensorresponsive to the weight of a bedbug and/or the mechanical force exertedby a bedbug may be utilized. In another instance, electromagneticradiation is used to sense bedbugs by returning, blocking, and/ordispersing the radiation in a manner that can be detected and identifiedas being indicative of bedbug presence. In a specific implementation ofthis approach, bedbugs in device 20 and/or 70 are directed along a pathsuch that a light beam directed across the path is broken/blocked when abedbug travels along such path. As a result, the output signal from anoptical detector responsive to the light beam changes state, indicatingthe presence of the bedbug. Likewise, acoustic energy, such asultrasound, may be used to detect bedbug presence. Additionally oralternatively, tarsal recognition or spectral analysis (includingwithout limitation ultraviolet and infrared techniques) may also be usedto detect the presence of the bedbugs.

Various features of devices 20, 70 can be combined or omitted in otherembodiments. In one arrangement, device 20 or 70 is provided in the formof a probe with a sensing surface defined by sensor 32, 82. For example,the sensing surface may be impregnated with a detector substance whichis exposed to a liquid bearing a sample submitted for detection ofinsect, or bedbug, indicative biochemicals. In response to the presenceof such biochemicals in the same (a positive result), the sensingsurface changes color to indicate likely insect presence. As such, thissurface also acts as an indicator in this arrangement, such that aseparate indicator is not needed. In one form, this probe may resemble ahuman pregnancy test. In still other arrangements, it should beappreciated that controller, sensor, and/or indicator functions may beintegral to each other such that they are represented as separatefeatures in only a logical sense. In yet other arrangements, acontroller may be absent in device 20 or 70 with sensor 38, 82 providinga signal directly to an indicator or remote data gathering/analysissite.

In FIG. 4 there is depicted one procedure 200 for using system 10. Atstage 210 procedure 200 is started either by attaching device 20, 70 toa desired location as indicated in FIG. 2 or by using a hand-held deviceas illustrated in FIG. 3. A sample of one or more substances which maypotentially include one or more targeted forms of biochemical substance144 is obtained at stage 220 to be analyzed by device 20, 70. At stage230, sensor 38, 82 analyzes the sample to determine if it is abiochemical substance indicative of a bedbug. Sensor 38, 82 passes theanalysis result onto controller 48, 94 which passes an output signal onto indicator 52, 100. Indicator 52, 100 is checked at stage 240 todetermine if biochemical substance 144 is present. If biochemicalsubstance 144 is present, then the human operator may exterminate atstage 245 using either exterminating system 109 of device 70 or analternative extermination method as would be appreciated by one havingskill in the art. At stage 250, after indicator 52, 100 indicates atstage 240 that biochemical substance 144 is not present and/or afterextermination at stage 245, the human operator must determine whether tocontinue procedure 200. If the procedure 200 is continued, like forexample at another location within the area being checked, thenprocedure 200 returns to restart, as indicated by arrow 255. Ifprocedure 200 is not continued, then it halts at stage 260. Procedure200 may be repeated continually until an entire bedbug population hasbeen removed and/or detected or until the human operator is satisfiedthat a sufficient period of time has passed without any indication ofbedbug presence.

In an alternative procedure, an attractant is used to lure bedbugs to alocation submitted to detection with device 20 and/or 70. Suchattractant can be included in device 20 or 70 and/or utilizedexternally/separately. These attractants can be included in a baitcombined with an insecticide for ingestion by bedbugs. The attractantcan include one or more naturally occurring or synthetic bedbugattracting compounds—which in one form may be structured to mimic one ormore biological or physical requirements essential for bedbug survivalwhile in another form may be known to draw bedbugs without correlationto survival—to name just a few examples. Further details regarding thecharacteristics of the attractant, and or combination of the attractantwith a bait and/or insecticide, will be provided herein below inconnection with attractant source 346 and bait 362. If used, theattractant should be selected so as not to increase the number of falsepositive indications of bedbug presence with sensor 32, 82 beyond anunacceptable threshold. Such circumstances may in particular arise withattractants that simulate bedbug biochemistry.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is illustrated a diagrammatic view of asecond type of system 310 suitable to address a bedbug infestation inroom 15. System 310 includes at least one device 320, which, asillustrated, is engaged with electrical wall receptacle 19 of room 15and may be suitable for one or more of detecting, monitoring andcontrolling a bedbug population. The total number of devices 320 used insystem 310 may vary in relation to the infestation problem and/or thetime period in which an effective removal is desired. While wallreceptacle 19 and device 320 are located below bed system. 40, it shouldbe appreciated that in one or more forms device 320 may be placedalternatively throughout room 15. For example, in one form, device 320may be engaged with a wall receptacle located alternatively to wallreceptacle 19. In another form, device 320 may utilize a power cord tofacilitate its placement on, for example, bed system 40. It should befurther appreciated that, dependent on proper power supply, device 320may generally be placed at various locations in room 15, as describedabove in connection with device 20.

Device 320 is shown in greater detail in a diagrammatic partialsectional view in FIG. 6. For this view, a few representative bedbugs BBare illustrated in and around device 320. Device 320 generally includesa housing member 321 including an exterior wall 322 and an outer cover325 forming internal chambers 323 and 328 a. It should be appreciatedthat chamber 323 is generally structured to provide a bedbug harboragefor one or more bedbugs BB which may enter chamber 323 through opening326. As illustrated, a dividing wall 328 separates chamber 323 fromchamber 328 a, with chamber 328 a being structured to provide a channelfor one more bedbug attractants to be released from chamber 328 athrough opening 326, which is accessible by bedbugs BB, and opening 327,which is not accessible by bedbugs BB. Opening 327 is directed to theexternal environment of the area in which device 320 is located, asindicated by directional arrow A. Opening 327 is generally structured topermit the attractant to be released from chamber 328 a but prohibits abedbug from entering chamber 328 a so that components of operatingsystem 338 are not disturbed. Dividing wall 328 defines one or morepermeable sections or openings 328 b through which attractants or heatmay be dispersed from chamber 328 a into chamber 323 and out of opening326, in order to draw bedbugs BB into chamber 323; however, openings 328b are structured to prevent the passage of bedbugs BB from chamber 323into chamber 328. Additionally, it should be understood that chamber 323may include one or more openings in addition to opening 326 and thatopening 326 and any additional openings may include one or more lightblocking devices to prohibit light from entering chamber 323.

Housing member 321 is generally rigid and has an approximately L-shapedprofile. The shorter leg of this profile is structured as a cantilever324 including an end wall 329 through which an electrical plug 330extends. Plug 330 includes first prong 331 and second prong 332 witheach being structured to engage with a corresponding socket ofelectrical wall receptacle 19. Plug 330 is typically joined toreceptacle 19 with a friction fit connection that is typically aided byleaf springs biased to press against prongs 331 and 332 withinreceptacle 19. With this connection, terminal ends 331 a, 332 a of eachof respective prongs 331, 332 can be inserted into the socket ofreceptacle 19 until end wall 329 comes into contact with an exteriorportion of receptacle 19. Once fully inserted, top portions 331 b, 332 bengage with a corresponding surface in the socket of wall receptacle 19to provide support for device 320. In this arrangement, as the weight ofdevice 320 forces housing member 321 in a downward direction, asindicated by directional arrow B, top portions 331 b, 332 b remain insufficient contact with the corresponding structure of the socket ofwall receptacle 19 to prevent device 320 from moving out of itsillustrated vertical position. Accordingly, device 320 is structured fora cantilevered connection to the receptacle 19 such that is may besuspended above the floor. As illustrated, device 320 is otherwisefreestanding, with no support structure needed except for the plug330/receptacle 19 engagement. It should be appreciated that in otherembodiments, the longer leg of the L-shaped 321 housing may be arrangedto articulate relative to the cantilever connection to receptacle 19and/or housing 321 may be differently shaped.

Device 320 further includes an operating system 338 structured tocontrol a bedbug population. System 338 includes various componentsdisposed in both chamber 323 and chamber 328 a. In the illustrated form,system 338 includes a controller 340, a fan module 342, a heat source344, an attractant source 346, a sensor 348, and an extermination module350. Plug 330 may be connected to controller 340 through any standardmanner, like for example soldering, riveting, mechanical terminals orthe like to provide an electrical power to system 338. Typically, powerfrom an AC (alternating current) source is converted to DC (directcurrent) electricity to power electronic devices, and such powerconversion circuitry would be included in device 320 as needed, but isnot shown to preserved clarity. In still other embodiments, some or allof the components of system 338 are passive in nature, not requiring apersistent source of electrical power.

Controller 340 is comprised of one or more components that may beconfigured as a single unit, or distributed among two or more units.Such components may be of a solid state, electromagnetic, optical,and/or different variety as would occur to those skilled in the art. Thecontroller 340 may include analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or ahybrid combination of both of these types. In one form, the controller340 is of the programmable variety that executes algorithms andprocesses data in accordance with its operating logic being defined byprogramming instructions (such as software or firmware). Alternativelyor additionally, the operating logic for controller 340 is at leastpartially defined by hardwired logic or other hardware. Controller 340sends controller output signals along signal pathways 341, 343, and 345to each of the respective fan module 342, heat source 344, andattractant source 346.

Fan module 342 may operate as a function of the controller output signalsent via signal pathway 341 and may include one or more of a motor and afan blade assembly structured to create air flow, as would beappreciated by one having skill in the art. It should be understood thatfan module 342 may be of any standard form and may include one or morecomponents in addition to or in lieu of those mentioned. The air flowcreated by fan module 342 generally moves in chamber 328 a past heatsource 344 and attractant source 346, both of which will be discussed infurther detail in general reference to FIGS. 5-7, and through openings327, 328 b and 326 to exit device 320. In one form, the air flow maycarry one or more of heat from heat source 344 or an attractant fromattractant source 346 to the external environment in which device 320 isplaced to attract one or more insects, such as bedbugs, to device 320,as will also be explained in further detail in reference to FIGS. 5-7generally. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the force of the airflow created by fan module 342 may be varied in different embodiments tocreate a stronger or weaker diffusion of heat and/or attractant. In oneform, the force of the air flow may be dependent on the temperature ofthe heat and/or the attraction potency of the attractant. In anotherform for example, the force of the air flow may be dependent on the areafrom which a human operator desires to attract the one or more insects.

Sensor 348 is located in chamber 323 and is generally structured todetect the presence of one or more bedbugs BB in chamber 323. It shouldbe appreciated that in alternative forms, sensor 348 may be placedexternal to chamber 323 on the exterior of device 320, to detect one ormore bedbugs BB being attracted to device 320. Sensor 348 may includeany one or more of motion detectors, heat detectors, photo-opticdetectors, weight detectors, and biochemical detectors, just to name afew possibilities. In an embodiment not illustrated, it is contemplatedthat sensor 348 may include a closed circuit detection arrangementemploying magnetic sensors. In this form, opening 326 may include abiasable door, which upon being opened in response to the weight of abedbug, misaligns the magnetic sensors and opens the circuit to detectthe bedbug's presence. In another form, sensor 348 may be structured todetect a bedbug through tarsal or spectral confirmation. Sensor 348 mayadditionally or alternatively include a biochemical detector to detectone or more biochemical substances indicative of bedbugs, as describedabove. As an alternative or additional sensing mechanism,electromagnetic radiation is used to sense bedbugs by returning,blocking, and/or dispersing the radiation in a manner that can bedetected and identified as being indicative of bedbug presence, asdescribed above with respect to devices 20, 70.

In response to detecting the presence of a bedbug, sensor 348 generatesa corresponding sensor signal that is conveyed along signal path 347 tocontroller 340. Controller 340 may process the sensor signal and thengenerate an additional controller output release signal which is sentalong signal pathway 349 to extermination module 350. As illustrated inphantom, extermination module 350 includes an internal reservoir 352communicating with an applicator tip 354. A closing member 358 is biasedto a closed position adjacent the applicator tip 354. The contents ofreservoir 352 include an insecticide 356 toxic to bedbugs. In responseto the release signal from signal pathway 349, closing member 358 opensto release insecticide 356 in a fluid form, such as an aerosol, gas,liquid, or powder into chamber 323 to exterminate the one or morebedbugs BB present therein. Closing member 358 may remain open torelease the insecticide 356 into chamber 323 until controller 340 stopssending the release signal along signal pathway 349 to exterminationmodule 350. In another form, extermination module 350 may be directlyconnected to sensor 348 and operate as a function of sensor 348detecting one or more bedbugs. In this form, extermination module 350and sensor 348 may be connected by one or more of a hard-wired orwireless electrical connection or by a mechanical connection. Aninsecticide toxic to bedbugs may also be present in chamber 323 eitherwith or without extermination module 350. In one form, insecticide ispresent in combination with an attractant in the form of bait structuredfor ingestion. Furthermore, chamber 323 may also contain one or moreadditional attractant sources (not shown). It should be appreciated thatinsecticide 356 may include one or more of the varieties disclosedherein below and will generally be structured to deliver a lethal effecton a bedbug through either contact exposure to the cuticle of a bedbug,insufflation through spiracles and/or ingestion.

In an unillustrated embodiment, system 338 may further include anindicator structured to notify a human operator of a positive ornegative indication of the presence of one or more bedbugs. Theindicator may be linked with controller 340 and operate as a function ofa controller output signal which is generated in response to the sensorsignal. In one form, the indicator includes one or more visual markersin the form of a light, a light emitting diode (LED), fluorescent,incandescent, and/or neon, output amongst other possibilities. In eachform, the presence of a bedbug may be indicated by, for example, adiscrete yes/no indicator, a color change, a flashing sequence, or otherchange in indicator state. In alternative forms, the indicator providesan output indicating the presence of one or more bedbugs in the form ofa colorimetric strip or an aural/audio signal. For embodiments with anindicator, such indicator may be structured to provide information inaddition to a positive or negative indication of bedbug presence, suchas a concentration or quantitative measurement from sensor 348.

It should be understood that device 320 may not include one or more ofthe components of system 338 as illustrated in FIG. 6. For example, FIG.7 depicts an alternative embodiment as device 360 suitable for one ormore of detecting, monitoring and controlling a bedbug population; wherelike numerals refer to like features previously described. Device 360includes attractant source 346 in chamber 328 a without a fan module orcontroller. In this form, plug 330 is connected to attractant source 346as shown by electrical circuitry 361 a, 361 b which may include anyAC/DC converters or other components desired to implement properoperation. Attractant source 346, discussed in further detail below, mayinclude one or more attractants releasable therefrom as electrical poweris supplied from plug 330 and passed therethrough. The attractant isgenerally structured to allure or attract one or more bedbugs to device360.

In device 360, chamber 328 a is in communication with chamber 423 ofdevice 360 to permit passage of attractant from source 346 to chamber423 via opening 328 b. Chamber 423 opens into opening 326 and isarranged to provide a bedbug harborage like chamber 323 of device 320,with opening 328 b being sized and/or shaped to prevent passage ofbedbugs into chamber 328 a from chamber 423. Chamber 423 includes one ormore trapping features 423 b disposed on each of angled surfaces 423 a,with each of surfaces 423 a being structured to prohibit a bedbug BBfrom leaving chamber 423 at opening 326. In one form, surfaces 423 a maycomprise one or more of a polished glass or metal or other tractionreducing substance(s) designed to prohibit movement of the bedbugsacross surfaces 423 a. In another form, surfaces 423 a may includetrapping features 423 b in the form of an adhesive material or petroleumjelly, with each being structured to limit bedbug movement. In stillanother form, surfaces 423 a may be configured with one or moremechanical barriers which prohibit bedbug movement from chamber 423 inthe direction of opening 326. Trapping features 423 b may alternativelyor additionally include a slipping, anti-friction agent that preventssufficient traction for bedbugs to escape from chamber 423. Whiletrapping features 423 b are illustrated on surface 423 a, it should beunderstood that one or more areas of chamber 423 may include one or moreforms of trapping features 423 b. It should be appreciated that a bedbugtrapped in chamber 423 may remain therein until eventual extermination,removal by a human operator, or death by starvation. Additionally,device 360 may include one or more insecticides dispersed throughoutchamber 423 in addition to or in lieu of trapping features 423 b.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, chamber 423 further comprises bait 362 whichmay include one or more forms of attractant as provided by attractantsource 346 and one or more forms of insecticide 356. Bait 362 may mimica blood meal source and is generally structured to induce one or morebedbugs to enter chamber 423 and eat therefrom. When a bedbug eats bait362, a toxic amount of insecticide 356 is ingested, resulting inextermination of the bedbug. In another embodiment, insecticide 356 maybe provided in a form which is toxic to a bedbug through exposure ratherthan ingestion, and may be placed on or about bait 362. This form may beused in addition to or in lieu of insecticide in an ingestible form. Onenonlimiting approach facilitates passing of the insecticide 356 from onebedbug to the next and/or transfer to bedbug eggs to bring aboutmortality.

Referring generally to FIGS. 5-7, devices 320, 360 may comprise anynumber of suitable materials including certain polymers, woods, metals,or any mixtures thereof. The internal surfaces of chamber 323, 423 maycomprise a material the same as, or different than, the rest of devices320, 360. For example, in one embodiment, chamber 323, 423 includes asurface suitable for the assembling of bedbugs and/or the depositing ofone or more bedbug eggs thereon. In this embodiment, the surface may bea textured surface defined by fabric, paper, or wood. A surfaceresembling any one or more of mattress 44, box springs 45, legs 41 a-41d, frame 42, headboard 43, wallpaper, carpet, plaster, and bed sheets,just to name a few possibilities, may also be included within chamber323, 423.

In the illustrated embodiments, plug 330 of device 320, 360 is generallystructured to engage with wall receptacle 19 of room 15 when wallreceptacle 19 provides a 110-120 Volts AC electric power. As would beappreciated by one having skill in the art, prong 331 is slightly largerthan prong 332 to provide one-way keying for engagement with receptacle19. In an alternative form in which polarity control is not significant,prongs 331, 332 may be the same size. Plug 330 may also include a thirdgrounding prong in addition to prongs 331, 332 in other embodiments. Itis contemplated that in an alternative embodiment device 320, 360 mayinclude an adjustable plug 330 and corresponding circuitry that canadapt to other types of power and can include an internal source, suchas a battery that is charged through receptacle 19 to provide back-uppower when receptacle power fails.

In varying forms, heat source 344 may use power from plug 330 to produceheat in any standard manner, including for example, with a coilresistance heater, a metal oxide resistance heater, or a PTC (PositiveTemperature Coefficient) heater, just to name a few possibilities. Inone instance, heat source 344 generates heat in an amount commensuratewith the presence of a blood meal source and/or suitable bedbugharborage. In another form, the heat may be in an amount commensurate torelease one or more attractants from attractant source 346 as describedbelow. In one such form, heat source 344 can be structured to increasethe temperature of chamber 323 to a climate most preferred by bedbugs,like for example, in the range of 70 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Inanother example, heat source 344 is structured to increase thetemperature of chamber 323 to mimic the body temperature of a blood mealsource to increase attraction of one or more bedbugs. In one form, wherethe blood meal source is a human, the temperature is raised by heatsource 344 to around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be understoodthat fan module 342 may push heat at any temperature out of chamber 328a through hole 327, to attract one or more bedbugs to device 320, inaddition to or in lieu of modifying the temperature of chamber 323.

Alternatively or additionally, heat from source 344 can be controlled toprovide a thermal level sufficient to exterminate bedbugs once presentin chamber 323. In this exterminating form, heat source 344 may be usedto raise the temperature of chamber 323 to a level where a sufficientduration of exposure kills a bedbug. In one exterminating form, thetemperatures may be raised to somewhere in the range of 99 to 125degrees Fahrenheit. It should be understood that in some embodiments,heat source 344 may provide even higher temperatures, where a shorterduration of exposure time is sufficient for extermination. Furthermore,heat source 344 may be coupled with one or more controls structured todictate the time and/or temperature at which source 344 heats.

Attractant source 346 generally includes one or more attractantsstructure to induce one or more bedbugs into entering chamber 232, 423of devices 320, 360. The one or more attractants may be in a gel, gas,aerosol, powder, liquid, or particulate form, just to name a fewpossibilities. As indicated above, one or more attractants the same asor similar to attractant source 346 may also be used on or near one ormore devices 20 and 70. Attractant source 346 may include one or moreholding and releasing structures dependent upon the selectedattractant(s) and form in which the attractant(s) is used. For example,in one form, attractant source 346 may include a porous matrixdispensing member holding the attractant in a particulate or a powderedform. In this embodiment, the attractant may be released from attractantsource 346 by the air flow produced by fan module 342 and carried out ofchamber 328 a or passed into chamber 323. In another form, attractantsource 346 may include a gel matrix which holds the attractant. Theattractant may be released from the gel matrix, for example, by exposureto heat from heat source 344 or electrical current provided by plug 330.In another form, attractant source 346 may include a holding reservoirfrom which the attractant may be released upon reception of a controlleroutput signal along pathway 345. Furthermore, in another contemplatedembodiment, the attractant may be time-released from attractant source346 in a conjunction with, for example, a time delayed chemicalreaction. In one such form, the chemical reaction may be dependent upona controller output signal sent via signal pathway 345. In either ofthese forms, the attractant may emanate from attractant source 346 basedupon its own chemical and physical properties or may be displaced fromchamber 328 a and/or into chamber 323 with air flow created by fanmodule 342.

Attractant source 346 includes one or more attractants which may benaturally occurring or synthetic bedbug alluring compounds structured tomimic one or more biological or physical requirements essential forbedbug survival. In one form, the attractant may include any combinationof one or more of avian or mammalian pheromones, hormones, sweat,epidermic oils, blood, choline, and other body odors, such as thoseassociated with, for example, halitosis. The bedbug attractionassociated with any combination of compositions in attractant source 346may be further enhanced by the production of heat by heat source 344.Furthermore, heat can be used to liberate attractant with or without theaid of a fan. Attractant source 346 may further be placed within acontrolled atmosphere or emit one or more gases therefrom byevaporation, sublimation, diffusion, or such other mechanism as wouldoccur to those skilled in the art.

In one embodiment, attractant source 346 provides a controlled level ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) in and/or surrounding device 320, 360 to attractbedbugs. For instance, the CO₂ level can be regulated to simulate theconcentration of CO₂ exhaled by a blood meal source for a bedbug.Accordingly, this level may mimic that of a mammal, including but notlimited to, domesticated animals and pets, bats, rats, or humans. In onepreferred form, a CO₂ level indicative of a human blood meal source isprovided, such as a CO₂ level between about 0.01 and 1.0 percent of theatmosphere in or surrounding device 320, 360. In another preferred form,attractant source 346 may distribute between 0.003 to 0.042 mL of CO₂per square meter of surface of either attractant source 346 or device320, 360. Device 320, 360 may include an internal reservoir of CO₂ andone or more release mechanisms to control the distribution rate of theCO₂. In alternative embodiments, the humidity levels of the atmospherein or surrounding device 320, 360 may be altered in addition to or inlieu of a CO₂ level change.

In an embodiment where attractant source 346 includes a sweat simulatingcompound, various levels of sodium chloride (NaCl) and urea ((NH₂)₂CO)may be included. One or more odorants, such as 2-methylphenol or4-methylphenol, may be included in attractant source 346 with or withoutthe presence of one or more of sodium chloride or urea. In one form, theepidermic oil may mimic sebum as produced by the human sebaceous glandand may include a mixture of one or more of wax monoesters,triglycerides, free fatty acids, and squalene. It should be understoodthat the quantity of each may vary in order to control one or morechemical characteristics of the epidermic oil, such as for example,stereochemistry, pH level, or electrochemistry, to assist in itsattracting function. It is further contemplated that attractant source346 may include additional compounds associated with the human body,including glucose, lactic acid, or bile salts such as choline, just toname a few example. Furthermore, one or more of sodium taurocholate andsodium glycocholate or a mixture thereof may be added to the variousforms and embodiments of attractants included in attractant source 346.

In another form, attractant source 346 may include one or moreattractants associated with bedbugs. By way of nonlimiting example,pheromones may be included in one or more forms of an assembling oraggregative pheromone, a sexual pheromone, or an aggression stimulatingpheromone. In one example, the pheromone is similar to one contained inone or more scent producing glands of a bedbug. In another example, oneor more extracts of bedbug excreta or other bedbug secretions may beused. In yet another example, an extract of excreta obtained using amixture of water and methanol solvent is present as an attractant.

It should be appreciated that bait 362 may include any whole or part ofa blood meal source, including but not limited to synthetic or naturalavian or mammalian blood. While illustrated in connection with device360, and described in connection with both of devices 320, 360, itshould be appreciated that bait 362 may be implemented with either ofthe other devices 20 and 70. For one implementation, the mammalian bloodmay be in the form of human blood and may include one or more of redblood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma, the plasmaincluding but not limited to, albumin, thrombogenic factors,immunoglobulins, hormones, proteins, and/or electrolytes. It should beunderstood that the mixture of the above elements may change inalternative embodiments to alter attracting or ingestion qualities. Itis contemplated that the bait 362 may be placed in or about chamber 323,423 or on or about the exterior of each of the respective devices 320,360. In one form, the bait may be intermixed with one or more forms ofattractant releasable by attractant source 346 as described above. Inanother form, bait 362 is mixed with insecticide 56 such that consumingthe bait will deliver a lethal dose of insecticide 356 to a bedbug, asdescribed above in regard to FIG. 7.

In one unillustrated form, in which bait 362 is utilized, it may includeone or more features designed to simulate a human being. For example, anexternal layer mimicking skin may enclose an internal reservoirincluding one or more blood meal forms, which in one embodiment may behuman blood. The external layer may include one or more of the abovelisted attractants and may further include additional features, such aspores, hair follicles, and/or hair shafts. In one particularimplementation, the external layer is indicative of the arms andshoulder of a human blood meal. The bait 362 may further emit CO₂ and orbe placed in a CO₂ controlled environment as previously described. Heatfrom heating source 344 may further be included to make the temperatureof the external layer indicative of the epidermis of a human. One ormore forms of insecticide may be mixed with a blood meal attractant andstructured so that as a bedbug pierces the external layer and attemptsto feed on the blood meal, a lethal dosage of insecticide is deliveredto the bedbug. The bait 362 may further include one or more featurescapable of restricting blood loss from the reservoir from piercingscreated by a bedbug.

It should be further understood that the components of devices 320, 360can be connected using wired or wireless techniques. For a furtherembodiment, information is relayed by a wired or wireless communicationsignal pathway from device 320, 360 to a remote site for further datacollection and analysis. This remote site could be a computer coupled todevice 320 and/or 360 by a computer network in a designated room of ahotel, nursing home, cruise ship, train, dormitory, barracks, hospital,or the like and/or could even be remote relative to such structures,like a pest control service provider business location or the like. Instill other arrangements, it should be appreciated that one orcomponents of system 338 may be integral to each other such that theyare represented as separate features in only a logical sense. It shouldbe appreciated that devices 320 or 360 could be adapted to provide anair freshener or fragrance and/or to provide air purification inaddition to insect control operations.

FIG. 8 depicts one procedure 500 for using system 310 in flowchart form.At stage 510, procedure 500 begins. Following stage 510 is stage 520 inwhich system 310 is installed, including for example engaging device320, 360 or one or more variations thereof with wall receptacle 19 ofroom 15. After installation, at stage 530 system 310 begins to attractone or more bedbugs in accordance with one or more embodimentsdisclosed. At stage 540, inspection of system 310 occurs to see ifbedbugs or signs indicative of bedbug infestation are present. It iscontemplated that the inspection may be facilitated by one or more ofsensor 348 or visual inspection by a human operator. A determination ofthe presence of one or more bedbugs is made at stage 550. If it isdetermined that one or more bedbugs are present, the bedbugs may beexterminated at stage 555. In one form, extermination module 350exterminates the bedbugs in response to an output signal from controller340. In another form, where extermination module 350 is absent, thehuman operator may determine whether to exterminate the bedbugs. If nobedbugs or signs indicative of bedbugs are present and a sufficientperiod of time has passed to satisfy the human operator that no bedbugsare present, then at stage 560 the operator may proceed to step 570 andhalt procedure 500. If however signs of bedbugs are present or asufficient period of time has not passed to satisfy the human operatorof a lack of presence of bedbugs, procedure 500 may be started overagain as indicated by arrow 565. Procedure 500 may be continuallyrepeated until an entire bedbug population has been removed and/or thehuman operator is satisfied that a sufficient period of time has passedwithout any indication of bedbug presence, indicating their absence.

As indicated above, it is contemplated that one or more embodiments mayinclude an insecticide 124, 356 effective for exterminating one or morebedbugs. In one form, insecticide 124, 356 may include one or more of1,2 dichloropropane, 1,3 dichloropropene, abamectin, acephate,acequinocyl, acetamiprid, acethion, acetoprole, acrinathrin,acrylonitrile, alanycarb, aldicarb, aldoxycarb, aldrin, allethrin,allosamidin, allyxycarb, alpha cypermethrin, alpha ecdysone, amidithion,amidoflumet, aminocarb, amiton, amitraz, anabasine, arsenous oxide,athidathion, azadirachtin, azamethiphos, azinphos ethyl, azinphosmethyl, azobenzene, azocyclotin, azothoate, barium hexafluorosilicate,barthrin, benclothiaz, bendiocarb, benfuracarb, benomyl, benoxafos,bensultap, benzoximate, benzyl benzoate, beta cyfluthrin, betacypermethrin, bifenazate, bifenthrin, binapacryl, bioallethrin,bioethanomethrin, biopermethrin, bistrifluron, borax, boric acid,bromfenvinfos, bromo DDT, bromocyclen, bromophos, bromophos ethyl,bromopropylate, bufencarb, buprofezin, butacarb, butathiofos,butocarboxim, butonate, butoxycarboxim, cadusafos, calcium arsenate,calcium polysulfide, camphechlor, carbanolate, carbaryl, carbofuran,carbon disulfide, carbon tetrachloride, carbophenothion, carbosulfan,cartap, chinomethionat, chlorantraniliprole, chlorbenside,chlorbicyclen, chlordane, chlordecone, chlordimeform, chlorethoxyfos,chlorfenapyr, chlorfenethol, chlorfenson, chlorfensulphide,chlorfenvinphos, chlorfluazuron, chlormephos, chlorobenzilate,chloroform, chloromebuform, chloromethiuron, chloropicrin,chloropropylate, chlorphoxim, chlorprazophos, chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifosmethyl, chlorthiophos, chromafenozide, cinerin I, cinerin II,cismethrin, cloethocarb, clofentezine, closantel, clothianidin, copperacetoarsenite, copper arsenate, copper naphthenate, copper oleate,coumaphos, coumithoate, crotamiton, crotoxyphos, cruentaren A 86B,crufomate, cryolite, cyanofenphos, cyanophos, cyanthoate, cyclethrin,cycloprothrin, cyenopyrafen, cyflumetofen, cyfluthrin, cyhalothrin,cyhexatin, cypermethrin, cyphenothrin, cyromazine, cythioate,d-limonene, dazomet, DBCP, DCIP, DDT, decarbofuran, deltamethrin,demephion, demephion O, demephion S, demeton, demeton methyl, demeton O,demeton O methyl, demeton S, demeton S methyl, demeton S methylsulphon,diafenthiuron, dialifos, diamidafos, diazinon, dicapthon,dichlofenthion, dichlofluanid, dichlorvos, dicofol, dicresyl,dicrotophos, dicyclanil, dieldrin, dienochlor, diflovidazin,diflubenzuron, dilor, dimefluthrin, dimefox, dimetan, dimethoate,dimethrin, dimethylvinphos, dimetilan, dinex, dinobuton, dinocap,dinocap 4, dinocap 6, dinocton, dinopenton, dinoprop, dinosam,dinosulfon, dinotefuran, dinoterbon, diofenolan, dioxabenzofos,dioxacarb, dioxathion, diphenyl sulfone, disulfiram, disulfoton,dithicrofos, DNOC, dofenapyn, doramectin, ecdysterone, emamectin, EMPC,empenthrin, endosulfan, endothion, endrin, EPN, epofenonane,eprinomectin, esfenvalerate, etaphos, ethiofencarb, ethion, ethiprole,ethoate methyl, ethoprophos, ethyl ODD, ethyl formate, ethylenedibromide, ethylene dichloride, ethylene oxide, etofenprox, etoxazole,etrimfos, EXD, famphur, fenamiphos, fenazaflor, fenazaquin, fenbutatinoxide, fenchlorphos, fenethacarb, fenfl uthrin, fenitrothion,fenobucarb, fenothiocarb, fenoxacrim, fenoxycarb, fenpirithrin,fenpropathrin, fenpyroximate, fenson, fensulfothion, fenthion, fenthionethyl, fentrifanil, fenvalerate, fipronil, flonicamid, fluacrypyrim,fluazuron, flubendiamide, flubenzimine, flucofuron, flucycloxuron,flucythrinate, fluenetil, flufenerim, flufenoxuron, flufenprox,flumethrin, fluorbenside, fluvalinate, fonofos, formetanate, formothion,formparanate, fosmethilan, fospirate, fosthiazate, fosthietan,fosthietan, furathiocarb, furethrin, furfural, gamma cyhalothrin, gammaHCH, halfenprox, halofenozide, HCH, HEOD, heptachlor, heptenophos,heterophos, hexaflumuron, hexythiazox, HHDN, hydramethylnon, hydrogencyanide, hydroprene, hyquincarb, imicyafos, imidacloprid, imiprothrin,indoxacarb, iodomethane, IPSP, isamidofos, isazofos, isobenzan,isocarbophos, isodrin, isofenphos, isoprocarb, isoprothiolane,isothioate, isoxathion, ivermectin jasmolin I, jasmolin II, jodfenphos,juvenile hormone I, juvenile hormone II, juvenile hormone III, kelevan,kinoprene, lambda cyhalothrin, lead arsenate, lepimectin, leptophos,lindane, lirimfos, lufenuron, lythidathion, malathion, malonoben,mazidox, mecarbam, mecarphon, menazon, mephosfolan, mercurous chloride,mesulfen, mesulfenfos, metaflumizone, metam, methacrifos, methamidophos,methidathion, methiocarb, methocrotophos, methomyl, methoprene,methoxychlor, methoxyfenozide, methyl bromide, methyl isothiocyanate,methylchloroform, methylene chloride, metofluthrin, metolcarb,metoxadiazone, mevinphos, mexacarbate, milbemectin, milbemycin oxime,mipafox, mirex, MNAF, monocrotophos, morphothion, moxidectin,naftalofos, naled, naphthalene, nicotine, nifluridide, nikkomycins,nitenpyram, nithiazine, nitrilacarb, novaluron, noviflumuron, omethoate,oxamyl, oxydemeton methyl, oxydeprofos, oxydisulfoton,paradichlorobenzene, parathion, parathion methyl, penfluron,pentachlorophenol, permethrin, phenkapton, phenothrin, phenthoate,phorate, phosalone, phosfolan, phosmet, phosnichlor, phosphamidon,phosphine, phosphocarb, phoxim, phoxim methyl, pirimetaphos, pirimicarb,pirimiphos ethyl, pirimiphos methyl, potassium arsenite, potassiumthiocyanate, pp′ DDT, prallethrin, precocene I, precocene II, precoceneIII, primidophos, proclonol, profenofos, profluthrin, promacyl,promecarb, propaphos, propargite, propetamphos, propoxur, prothidathion,prothiofos, prothoate, protrifenbute, pyraclofos, pyrafluprole,pyrazophos, pyresmethrin, pyrethrin I, pyrethrin II, pyridaben,pyridalyl, pyridaphenthion, pyrifluquinazon, pyrimidifen, pyrimitate,pyriprole, pyriproxyfen, quassia, quinalphos, quinalphos, quinalphosmethyl, quinothion, quantifies, rafoxanide, resmethrin, rotenone,ryania, sabadilla, schradan, selamectin, silafluofen, sodium arsenite,sodium fluoride, sodium hexafluorosilicate, sodium thiocyanate,sophamide, spinetoram (XDE-175), spinosad, spirodiclofen, spiromesifen,spirotetramat, sulcofuron, sulfiram, sulfluramid, sulfotep, sulfur,sulfuryl fluoride, sulprofos, tau fluvalinate, tazimcarb, TDE,tebufenozide, tebufenpyrad, tebupirimfos, teflubenzuron, tefluthrin,temephos, TEPP, terallethrin, terbufos, tetrachloroethane,tetrachlorvinphos, tetradifon, tetramethrin, tetranactin, tetrasul,theta cypermethrin, thiacloprid, thiamethoxam, thicrofos, thiocarboxime,thiocyclam, thiodicarb, thiofanox, thiometon, thionazin, thioquinox,thiosultap, thuringiensin, tolfenpyrad, tralomethrin, transfluthrin,transpermethrin, triarathene, triazamate, triazophos, trichlorfon,trichlormetaphos 3, trichloronat, trifenofos, triflumuron, trimethacarb,triprene, vamidothion, vamidothion, vaniliprole, vaniliprole, XMC,xylylcarb, zeta cypermethrin and zolaprofos.

It is also contemplated that various embodiments of the presentapplication can also be used with herbicides and fungicides, both forreasons of economy and synergy. Additionally or alternatively, one ormore embodiments of the application can be used with antimicrobials,bactericides, defoliants, safeners, synergists, algaecides, attractants,desiccants, pheromones, repellants, animal dips, avicides,disinfectants, semiochemicals, and molluscicides (these categories notnecessarily mutually exclusive) for reasons of economy and synergy. Formore information consult “Compendium of Pesticide Common Names” locatedat http://www.alanwood.net/pesticides/index.html as of the filing dateof this application. Also consult “The Pesticide Manual” 14th Edition,edited by CDS Tomlin, copyright 2006 by British Crop Production Council.

Various embodiments of the present application can be used with othercompounds to form synergistic mixtures where the mode of action of thecompounds in the mixtures is the same, similar, or different. Examplesof mode of actions include, but are not limited to: acetyl cholineesterase inhibitor; sodium channel modulator; chitin biosynthesisinhibitor; GABA-gated chloride channel antagonist; GABA andglutamate-gated chloride channel agonist; acetyl choline receptoragonist; MET I inhibitor; Mg-stimulated ATPase inhibitor; nicotinicacetylcholine receptor; Midgut membrane disrupter; and oxidativephosphorylation disrupter.

Additionally, the following compounds are known as synergists and can beused with one or more embodiments of the present application: piperonylbutoxide, piprotal, propyl isome, sesamex, sesamolin, and sulfoxide.

Many different embodiments of the present application are envisioned. Inone example, a device is structured to detect one or more biochemicalsindicative of one or more insect species in lieu of or in addition toone or more bedbug species. Additionally or alternatively, insecticidesand other extermination techniques can be adapted to eliminate attractedinsects other than bedbugs. Such alternative insect species can includeother pestiferous insects such as lice, Rhodnius, and/or mosquitoes.

In another example, one embodiment comprises operating a device todetermine if bedbugs are present in a room, including: analyzing asubstance from the room to detect a biochemical indicative ofbiochemistry selective to bedbugs in the indoor space; and if thebiochemical is detected by analyzing of the substance then indicatingthe bedbugs are present to a human operator. The operating of the devicemay include one or more of applying an aerosol, performing a wipe assay,and obtaining an air sample.

Another example includes an apparatus comprising: a sensing arrangementincluding one or more sensors structured to analyze a substance receivedby the device and generate one or more corresponding sensor signals; acontroller operatively coupled to the sensing arrangement, thecontroller being structured with operating logic to determine ifnitrophorin is included in the substance based on the one or morecorresponding sensor signals and generate an output signalrepresentative of the presence of bedbugs in response to a presence ofthe nitrophorin in the substance; and an output device responsive to theoutput signal to operate in accordance with the bedbug presence. Theapparatus may further include means for exterminating insects that isresponsive to the output signal. In one form directed to bedbugs, theexterminating means includes at least one insecticide.

An additional embodiment includes selecting a room to evaluate forpresence of bedbugs; receiving a substance from the room; detecting apresence of nitrophorin in the substance; and in response to thepresence of nitrophorin, activating a device indicative of the presenceof bedbugs.

Still, another embodiment is directed to a method for determining thepresence of bedbugs in a room, including: obtaining a sample of asubstance from the room; analyzing the sample to determine ifnitrophorin is present in the substance; and providing an indication ofthe presence of bedbugs in response to the determination of the presenceof nitrophorin.

A further embodiment comprises a plug-in device that includes a housingdefining an insect harboring chamber, an electric-powered devicedisposed relative to the chamber to attract insects, and a plug memberelectrically coupled to the electric-powered device. The plug isstructured to engage an electric socket and defines a cantilever tosupport the plug-in device above floor level when engaged in theelectric wall socket.

Another embodiment of the present application includes: providing aninsect trap with a chamber for insect harborage, attracting insects ofone or more species to the chamber by providing one or more indicationsof a blood meal source for such insects at the trap, and at least one ofdetecting the insects in the trap and providing an insecticide toxic tothe insects in the trap. In one form the insects include bedbugs.

Yet another embodiment comprises a device including a chamber structuredto harbor insects of one or more species and an insect attractantdisposed relative to the chamber to attract insects thereto. Theattractant provides one or more indications corresponding to a bloodmeal source for the insects. The insect attractant is disposed relativeto the chamber to attract the insects to the chamber to expose theinsects to an insecticide toxic to the insects in the chamber. In oneform, the one or more species of insects targeted by the device includebedbugs.

Still another embodiment comprises a device that includes a chamberstructured to harbor insects and an insect attractant disposed relativeto the chamber to attract insects thereto. The insect attractant isindicative of an insect blood meal source, and includes one or more of:(a) a heat output corresponding to the insect blood meal source, (b) oneor more sweat constituents corresponding to the insect blood mealsource, and (c) a carbon dioxide concentration corresponding to theinsect blood meal source. In one form, the insect attractant targetsbedbugs.

A further example includes: providing an insect trap with a chamber forinsect harborage, attracting insects to the chamber by providing one ormore indications of a blood meal source at the trap, and at least one ofdetecting the insects in the trap and providing an insecticide toxic tothe insects in the trap. One more specific, nonlimiting form includescantilevering the trap above floor level by engaging a plug member ofthe trap into an electrical outlet and/or targeting bedbugs with thetrap.

In another example, a bedbug trap defines a chamber for bedbugharborage, and includes: means for attracting bedbugs to the chamber byproviding one or more indications of a blood meal source at the trap,and at least one of means for detecting the bedbugs in the trap andmeans for providing an insecticide toxic to the bedbugs in the trap. Onemore specific, nonlimiting arrangement additionally includes means forcantilevering the bedbug trap above floor level by engaging a plugmember of the trap into an electrical outlet.

Still another example of a further embodiment of the present applicationcomprises a device with a chamber structured to harbor bedbugs and abedbug attractant disposed relative to the chamber to attract bedbugsthereto. The bedbug attractant provides one or more indications tobedbugs corresponding to a bedbug blood meal source. The bedbugattractant is disposed relative to the chamber to attract the bedbugs tothe chamber to expose the bedbugs to an insecticide toxic to the bedbugsin the chamber.

In yet another example, a device defines a chamber structured to harborbedbugs and includes a bedbug attractant disposed relative to thechamber to attract bedbugs thereto. The bedbug attractant is indicativeof a bedbug blood meal source, and includes one or more of: (a) a heatoutput corresponding to the bedbug blood meal source, (b) one or moresweat constituents corresponding to the bedbug blood meal source, and(c) a carbon dioxide concentration corresponding to the bedbug bloodmeal source. In one form, the device further includes an insecticide toexterminate bedbugs in the chamber.

A further example comprises a plug-in device that includes a housingdefining an insect harboring chamber, an electric-powered devicedisposed relative to the chamber to attract insects, and a plug memberelectrically coupled to the electric-powered device. The plug isstructured to engage an electric socket and defines a cantilever tosupport the plug-in device above floor level when engaged in theelectric wall socket. The device may be further structured to trap orexterminate insects in the chamber.

Any theory, mechanism of operation, proof, or finding stated herein ismeant to further enhance understanding of the present invention and isnot intended to make the present invention in any way dependent uponsuch theory, mechanism of operation, proof, or finding. It should beunderstood that while the use of the word preferable, preferably orpreferred in the description above indicates that the feature sodescribed may be more desirable, it nonetheless may not be necessary andembodiments lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope ofthe invention, that scope being defined by the claims that follow. Inreading the claims it is intended that when words such as “a,” “an,” “atleast one,” “at least a portion” are used there is no intention to limitthe claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary inthe claim. Further, when the language “at least a portion” and/or “aportion” is used the item may include a portion and/or the entire itemunless specifically stated to the contrary. While the invention has beenillustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoingdescription, the same is to be considered as illustrative and notrestrictive in character, it being understood that only the selectedembodiments have been shown and described and that all changes,modifications and equivalents that come within the spirit of theinvention as defined herein or by any of the following claims aredesired to be protected.

What is claimed is:
 1. An insect control device comprising: one or moresensors configured to (i) analyze a biochemical substance received bythe insect control device and (ii) generate a sensor signal in responseto analysis of the substance; a controller electrically coupled to theone or more sensors, wherein the controller is configured to (i) receivethe sensor signal, (ii) determine if the substance is indicative ofpresence of biochemistry of one or more insects, wherein the substancecomprises a hormone, pheromone, or kairomone produced by the one or moreinsects, and (iii) provide an indication of the presence of thebiochemistry of one or more insects to a remote location to monitor thepresence of the biochemistry of one or more insects from the remotelocation; and a power source electrically coupled to the controller andconfigured to provide power to the one or more sensors and thecontroller.
 2. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein to providethe indication to the remote location comprises to relay the indicationvia a communication pathway to a remote computing device at the remotelocation.
 3. The insect control device of claim 2, wherein thecommunication pathway comprises a wired or wireless communicationpathway.
 4. The insect control device of claim 2, wherein thecommunication pathway comprises a computer network.
 5. The insectcontrol device of claim 1, further comprising: a housing memberincluding an exterior wall that includes one or more sensor openings,the housing member defining an internal chamber; wherein each of the oneor more sensors includes a sensing portion positioned outside theinternal chamber of the housing member and configured to be exposed toan environment external to the internal chamber, wherein each of the oneor more sensors extends from the sensing portion, through one of the oneor more sensor openings, and into the internal chamber.
 6. The insectcontrol device of claim 5, wherein the housing member includes a handlestructured for engagement by a hand of a user.
 7. The insect controldevice of claim 1, further comprising an extermination module that iselectrically coupled to the controller, wherein the extermination moduleis configured to exterminate one or more insects in response to adetermination by the controller that the substance is indicative of thepresence of the biochemistry of one or more insects.
 8. The insectcontrol device of claim 7, wherein the extermination module includes areservoir configured to hold insecticide configured to exterminate oneor more insects, and wherein the extermination module includes anapplicator tip configured to deliver the insecticide to the one or moreinsects.
 9. An insect control device comprising: a housing member of aplug-in form with a plug member being structured to engage an electricsocket and define a cantilever to support the housing member such that aspace is positioned between the electric socket and a portion of thehousing member extending transversely to the plug member when the plugmember is engaged in the electric socket; one or more sensors positionedin the housing member and configured to (i) analyze a biochemicalsubstance received the insect control device and (ii) generate a sensorsignal in response to analysis of the substance; and a controllerelectrically coupled to the one or more sensors, wherein the controlleris configured to (i) receive the sensor signal, (ii) determine if thesubstance is indicative of presence of biochemistry of one or moreinsects, wherein the substance comprises a hormone, pheromone, orkairomone produced by the one or more insects, and (iii) provide anindication of the presence of the biochemistry of one or more insects toa remote location to monitor the presence of the biochemistry of one ormore insects from the remote location.
 10. The insect control device ofclaim 9, wherein the plug member is further structured to provideelectrical power to the one or more sensors and the controller.
 11. Theinsect control device of claim 9, wherein to provide the indication tothe remote location comprises to relay the indication via acommunication pathway to a remote computing device at the remotelocation.
 12. The insect control device of claim 11, wherein thecommunication pathway comprises a wired or wireless communicationpathway.
 13. The insect control device of claim 11, wherein thecommunication pathway comprises a computer network.
 14. The insectcontrol device of claim 9, further comprising an attractant sourceconfigured to attract the one or more insects, wherein the attractantsource is positioned in the housing member.
 15. The insect controldevice of claim 14, wherein the housing member includes an internalchamber and a dividing member separating the internal chamber into afirst portion and a second portion, wherein the attractant source ispositioned in the first portion and wherein the dividing member isstructured to facilitate passage of an attractant from the attractantsource to the second portion from the first portion.
 16. The insectcontrol device of claim 9, further comprising an extermination modulethat is electrically coupled to the controller, wherein theextermination module is positioned in the housing member, and whereinthe extermination module is configured to exterminate one or moreinsects in response to a determination by the controller that thesubstance is indicative of the presence of the biochemistry of one ormore insects.